During a closed-door meeting with GOP congressmen, former President Donald Trump referred to Milwaukee as 'horrible,' sparking differing interpretations among attendees. Some congressmen suggested Trump was highlighting concerns about crime and voter fraud in the city, a common theme in his rhetoric regarding Democratic-led urban areas. Trump's upcoming acceptance of the Republican nomination in Milwaukee added significance to his remarks.
President Joe Biden and Democratic allies swiftly seized on Trump's reported comment, with Biden sharing a photo expressing his fondness for Milwaukee. The city, a Democratic stronghold in swing-state Wisconsin, is set to host the Republican National Convention in July.
Trump's spokesperson clarified that the 'horrible' reference was aimed at crime and voter fraud, a sentiment echoed by some Republican congressmen present at the meeting. However, conflicting accounts emerged, with one congressman disputing that Trump made the comment and emphasizing Wisconsin's appeal in July.
Amid ongoing claims of election fraud, recent felony charges against Trump aides in Wisconsin have further fueled the debate over the 2020 election results. Investigations have consistently debunked widespread voter fraud allegations.
Local officials, including Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson and U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, responded to Trump's remarks with pointed remarks of their own, highlighting the city's positive attributes and referencing Trump's legal troubles. Democratic leaders in Wisconsin leveraged bipartisan cooperation to secure the convention, underscoring the state's political significance.
Despite the controversy, Milwaukee remains a focal point in the political landscape, with contrasting views on display regarding Trump's characterization of the city.
